The police officer was recognised in the Queen’s civilian gallantry list

Former Bromley PC Keith Palmer, who died in the Westminster terror attack, is to be awarded a posthumous George Medal for bravery in the Queen’s civilian gallantry list.

The list, published on Friday, commends the officers heroic actions in protecting members of the public and parliament from an armed terrorist in March.

He died after being stabbed by Khalid Masood, who was born in Dartford and grew up in Tunbridge Wells. Masood had just moments earlier driven into crowds walking along Westminster Bridge.

PC Palmer was 48-years-old and married with a five-year-old daughter.

Metropolitan Police commissioner Cressida Dick, said: “Keith acted that day with no thought for his own safety, intent simply on doing his job and protecting members of the public and Parliament. He paid the ultimate price for his selfless actions. We continue to grieve the loss of a much-loved and respected colleague and friend while supporting his family through this truly difficult time.

“I know that I speak on behalf of all of my officers and staff when I say how immensely proud we all are that PC Palmer is to receive posthumously the George Medal for bravery. It is an honour that could not be more deserved and I know it will mean a great deal to all those who knew and loved him.”

PC Palmer served in Bromley between 2002 and 2009 and had served on the parliamentary and diplomatic protection group since April 2016.

His murderer was armed with two large knives and despite the danger posed, PC Palmer moved to confront him, intent on protecting his colleagues and the public. In doing so he became the victim of a ferocious attack which took him to the ground, suffering injuries that were to cost him his life.

His actions provided time for other officers to react and shoot and stop the assailant.

The gallantry list citation adds: “PC Palmer’s bravery and professionalism unquestionably saved lives. PC Palmer did his duty. He stood his ground and placed himself between Parliament and a terrorist determined to harm those within. In doing so he made the ultimate sacrifice.”

PC Palmer had been in the Metropolitan Police Service for 16 years. In 2015 he was nominated for best thief taker in the commissioner’s Excellence Awards, having made more than 150 arrests in 12 months.

More than 100 young people from Police Cadet units across South London, including a teenager from Bromley, came together to receive prestigious Jack Petchey Foundation Achievement Awards, presented at the Kensington Great Hall on Sunday February 18.

Having a brand new kitchen is something that lots of people want but can only dream of. Sadly keeping up to date and making our living spaces as nice as they can be is a costly and incredibly stressful business. Even a fresh coat of paint makes all the difference but isn’t easy or quick.